Mathias, who has been with Ogilvy since 1988, took on duties as regional CEO of North America in 2013. However, Smith reorganized the firm's leadership in North America earlier this year and Mathias' role changed to head of the firm's Washington DC operation, the firm's largest in North America, which he led since 2002. After the end of some major government contracts in 2013, it is understood that substantial growth has remained elusive at Ogilvy Washington.

A spokesperson at Ogilvy PR issued the following statement:
"After 21 years of continuous service and a career that originally began with Ogilvy & Mather in 1988, Robert Mathias has informed us that he wishes this year (2016) to be his last with the Agency. Rob has been a valued and valuable member of our team for more than two decades and we are grateful for his service as head of our San Francisco office, head our Washington, DC office and as Regional CEO for North America for Ogilvy PR. Stuart Smith will assume Rob’s current responsibilities in Washington where Rob will remain until the end of the year to help get Stuart fully up to speed."